SCQF Level 5 (24 SCQF credit points)

Why study Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies?

This course gives you the opportunity to investigate the nature and scope of religion and morality and to consider philosophical viewpoints on religious and other stances for living in the modern world. It helps you to reflect on your own life experiences and develop your personal beliefs and values. In addition you will gain knowledge and understanding of the different beliefs and values of others and the ability to express your opinions and give informed comment.

The skills you learn in this course are valuable in a wide range of careers, and provide a valuable contribution to your personal, social and intellectual development.

What do I need to get in?

Entry is at the discretion of the school or college but you would normally have achieved:

What will I study?

Studying Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies develops your imagination and your thinking skills. You will learn about at least two of the world’s major religions (Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Sikhism). You will examine some contemporary moral issues and religious and philosophical questions. Throughout, you will learn to express viewpoints and talk about your own faith or values.

The course comprises three areas of study.

World Religion

You will:

develop your ability to explain and comment on the meaning of sources relating to the religion you are studying

develop factual and abstract knowledge and understanding of the impact and significance of religion today through studying some key beliefs, practices and sources found within one of the world’s six major religions.

develop skills to analyse religious and philosophical questions and responses.

How will I be assessed?

Course Assessment

The course assessment has two components totalling 100 marks:

Component 1: question paper – worth 80 marks

Component 2: assignment – worth 20 marks.

For the assignment component, you will be asked to choose and research an issue or topic drawn from a religious, moral or philosophical context, and produce evidence on your findings. The assignment component will be set and externally marked by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).

The question paper will be set and externally marked by SQA.

The grade awarded is based on the total marks achieved across all course assessment components.

Which jobs are related to this subject?

Where can my parents find out more?

Your school will give your parents an Options or Choices information booklet, which has detailed information on the curriculum and the individual subjects or courses you can study. It will also invite them along to a Parents’ Information Evening.